Mythological Mashup and Migration: Deconstructing Identity in Salman Rushdie's "The Satanic Verses"

Salman Rushdie's "The Satanic Verses" utilizes a complex interplay between myth, legend, and migration narratives. This paper explores how Rushdie employs a mythological mashup, merging and subverting myths and legends from Islam, Hinduism, and the West. Through this technique, Rushdie deconstructs the concept of a fixed, singular identity, particularly for characters caught between cultures due to migration. The analysis focuses on specific pairings of myths and legends, examining how their reinterpretation within the narrative reflects the fragmented and evolving nature of identity in a world marked by displacement and cultural clashes. Rushdie's approach challenges traditional notions of cultural heritage and belonging, highlighting the complexities of identity formation in the context of migration.